Tractor Mower -any experts out there?

[ryanguevara1983]

Actually, you probably don't need to be an expert, just more expert than me - VERY EASY!!!

I have changed the fuel and oil, and recharged the battery of my Mountfield Tractor mower ( B&S engine) after the winter, ready to start using it again.

The manual says, for a cold start, always have choke engaged. When I do this, it just struggles, the engine won't start. However, if I move the choke down to the 'tortoise' position, it will start. I then move it up to hare, and away I go.

Two things - can anybody tell me why it's not starting in the way it should? And, am I doing any damage by starting it in the 'tortoise' setting instead?

By tortoise, I mean pulled right down so the engine is running slowly. I'm sure it has a technical name!

Many thanks, Ryan

[Darwin.]

If it starts in that position then I'd imagine there's nothing wrong with that.

I'd be curious as to why it won't start with the choke on but as long as it's starting then running alright I wouldn't worry too much.

[Glutton4...]

I have a mate with a B&S Mower - he never knew it had a choke until I told him! I have a couple, and have had several. Some work without choke, some work like your one. Weird. If you ever need spares for one, there's a company called Br!ggsB!t$ that are great for parts.

[ryanguevara1983]

Thanks for your help, mate of mine said it could be old fuel/ water in the carburettor. Drained it out and it started 1st time in choke position, Ryan

[Glutton4...]

Excellent - proves I know nothing, too!